The choice between an over-under (O/U) and a side-by-side (S/S) shotgun is one of the oldest debates in shooting sports. Beyond aesthetics and tradition, the decision hinges on fundamental differences in engineering and design. At KOFS, we manufacture both with precision. Let’s analyze these two iconic designs from an engineer’s perspective to help you choose the right tool for your needs.

The Mechanical Heart: Action Design
Over-Under Action: The O/U design stacks its barrels vertically. This central alignment places the weight and the axis of recoil directly in line with the shooter’s shoulder. This creates a mechanical advantage, allowing for a lower, more streamlined action box that is inherently strong and facilitates a natural, straight-up recoil impulse, which many shooters find improves swing dynamics and reduces muzzle climb.

Side-by-Side Action: The S/S design places its barrels horizontally. This requires a wider, flatter action body to accommodate the hammers and firing mechanisms next to each other. The wider action is a classic hallmark of the design but can feel different in the hands. Recoil is distributed across a wider plane on the shoulder.

Inherent Accuracy & Rib Design
Over-Under: The single, sighting plane of the O/U’s rib is a significant advantage for precise aiming. The shooter looks directly down a single barrel, much like a rifle, which promotes accuracy, especially on crossing targets like clays or upland birds. This makes it the dominant choice for competitive shooting.
Side-by-Side: The S/S has two barrels and two sighting planes. The shooter typically focuses on a central rib between them, “floating” the target above. This is a faster, more instinctive sight picture for many experienced hunters in thick cover, where quick, snap shots are the norm.

Durability and Maintenance

Both designs from KOFS are built for longevity. However, the O/U’s action, with its stacked lumps resting on a flat, hardened hinge pin, is renowned for its immense strength and ability to handle high-volume shooting with less wear over time. The S/S action is equally robust for hunting purposes but has a different mechanical lockup that is a testament to classic, time-tested engineering.

Which KOFS is Right For You?
Choose an Over-Under (like the KOFS Field O/U) if your priority is versatility, precision shooting, and a design optimized for a variety of disciplines from clays to waterfowl. Its design is a result of modern engineering seeking optimal performance.

Choose a Side-by-Side (like the KOFS Classic S/S) if you value tradition, fast handling in dense cover, and the timeless aesthetic of a classic game gun. Its design is a beautiful piece of mechanical history, perfected over centuries.

There is no “better” design, only the right design for you. Both the Over-Under and Side-by-Side represent peaks of shotgun engineering, refined for different experiences. KOFS is proud to offer both, crafted with the same commitment to precision, quality, and performance. Discover the subtle differences for yourself by handling them at your local KOFS dealer.